Taiwan-U.S. study backs theory of termite spread via driftwood
03/02/2021 02:39 PM
Photo courtesy of National Chung Hsing University
Taipei, March 2 (CNA) Some species of termites have a strong ability to withstand saltwater, supporting the theory that they spread across oceans by drifting on wood, according to a study conducted by Taiwanese and American researchers.
Though termites can fly no more than a few kilometers, several termite species are found across continents and islands, raising the question of how they spread, Chiu Chun‐i (邱俊禕), the first author of the study, said in a press release on Monday.
Chiu, a postdoctoral researcher at National Chung Hsing University, said the most widely accepted theory has been that termites spread through driftwood, so he decided to test whether they could actually withstand the salinity levels in seawater.
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Published January 13, 2021, 6:52 PM
Projects on improving mango production through science and technology (S&T) and innovative insect pest management were recently awarded as the outstanding research and development initiatives honored during the National Symposium on Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (NSAARRD).
(PNA / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
NSAARRD recognizes outstanding contributions of individuals and institutions in improving the state of R&D in the country in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sector. NSAARRD recognizes two award categories: Best Research Paper and Best Development Paper.
The project, “Harnessing Entomopathogenic Fungi (EPF) for the Control of Citrus Rind Borer (CRB) (Prays endolemma Diakonoff) on Satsuma Mandarin (Citrus unshiu) topped this year’s contenders for Best Research Paper.